Portaferry RNLI celebrates milestone in charity’s history
The 200th anniversary of the RNLI was celebrated in Portaferry on Sunday (26 May) with a cross-community service of thanksgiving held in Portaferry community centre.
The service hosted by Portaferry RNLI was greatly supported by both the local community and those who had travelled from further afield and included contributions from religious representatives from Portaferry and the surrounding areas. The audience was entertained by local Sea Shanty group, the Selkies, and a solo by Father Martin O'Hagan who was accompanied by Zara Quinn.
Amongst the attendees were the Lord Lieutenant of County Down Gawn Rowan Hamilton, Mayor Jennifer Gilmour, Mr Jim Shannon MP, Portaferry RNLI operations president John Murray, president of Portaferry RNLI fundraising branch Mrs Eveleigh Brownlow MBE and Ards Peninsula Council members.
All at Portaferry RNLI wish to express their sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to, or joined them to mark such a important milestone in their charity's history.
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Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.
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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.